The Blk Powerhouse Podcast

What does it really take to build a successful career as a ghostwriter?In this episode of The Blk Powerhouse Podcast, Leah Hernandez sits down with ghostwriter, editor, and author Leah Lakins, whose clients include Steve Harvey, Pinky Cole, Roland Martin, and Van Lathan.Leah pulls back the curtain on the ghostwriting industry and shares practical advice for writers, editors, freelancers, and publishing professionals.In this episode, we discuss:• How Leah got her start in publishing and ghostwriting• Why she's stepping out from behind the scenes after years as a ghostwriter• The biggest differences between ghostwriting 10 years ago and today• What's typically included in ghostwriting contracts—and what to look out for• Authentic networking strategies that have helped her build a thriving business• The realities of freelancing and entrepreneurship in publishing• Why building a publishing career outside of New York worked to her advantage• What it was like working with Steve Harvey and how she captured his voice on the pageWhether you're a writer, editor, ghostwriter, freelancer, or someone looking to break into publishing, this conversation is packed with practical insights on building a sustainable career in books.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by my friend Kyle Colley, Co-Founder & CEO of Bookum — a social reading app and virtual book club platform connecting authors, readers, and book influencers all in one place.We discuss how bestselling authors like S.A. Cosby, Cebo Campbell, and Wallo have used the platform to host live conversations and connect directly with readers. This episode dives into why book influencers, bookstores, book club hosts, authors, and publishing professionals should be paying attention to platforms like Bookum. In this episode you'll learn: How book influencers and content creators monetize their audience on the appThe opportunity for bookstores to use the platform and earn revenue How to host virtual book clubs directly on the app, and build community without needing Zoom, email newsletters, and multiple sign-up platforms.Why readers enjoy discussing books on Bookum over other social media platforms Strategies on how to build a business in the publishing industry If you work anywhere in the book ecosystem, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.